Kidney Stone Prevention: A Guide

The kidneys, a pair of bean-shaped organs in the back of the body, perform the following crucial functions:

  • Removing toxins, extra water, and other blood contaminants by filtration.
  • controlling blood sodium and potassium concentrations.
  • Controlling blood pressure and hematopoiesis.
  • Enhancing calcium absorption by activating a vitamin D form.

A kidney stone occurs in the kidney and is composed of minerals and salts. The crystalline structure of kidney stones can be maintained even when they reach the size of a golf ball.  It is not possible for a kidney stone to remain in the kidney, but it is also possible for it to move on to other parts of the urinary system. A murray hill urologist can help.

High urine concentrations of calcium, oxalate, and phosphorus lead to the formation of kidney stones. Low concentrations of the minerals in question are typically observed in urine and pose no health risks.

How many distinct kidney stone subtypes are there?

Below, we will take a look at the four most common kinds of kidney stones:

  • Most kidney stones are calcium stones, which form in the kidneys. The kidneys normally filter out any calcium that is not needed by the body’s bones and muscles as waste. If this does not happen, the calcium will accumulate in the kidneys and eventually form a stone. Reducing the consumption of foods like peanuts, spinach, beets, chocolate, and sweet potatoes may be helpful.
  • Too much acid in the urine can lead to the formation of uric acid stones. Uric acid stones are more likely to form when there is a family history of them. Purines are a naturally occurring chemical molecule that is abundant in red meat, organ meats, and shellfish. Increased uric acid synthesis and a greater acid load for the kidneys to excrete are the results of a diet heavy in purines.

Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products are the cornerstones of a balanced diet, which may improve health if consumed regularly. Reducing your intake of sugary meals and drinks, alcohol, and protein from animals might also help.

  • Infections, especially those of the urinary system, can lead to the development of struvite stones. These stones can grow rapidly in size and may appear suddenly.
  • Stones composed of cystine are the result of a genetic disease called cystinuria. The amino acid cysteine is lost in cystinuria, making its way into the urine.

Indicators of kidney stone formation?

Possible kidney stone symptoms include:

  • Extreme discomfort in the lower extremities (back, sides, stomach, groin)
  • Urine containing blood
  • Urinary discomfort or incontinence
  • Urinary urgency that will not go away
  • Urine that is cloudy or has a foul odor
  • Chills and a fever
  • Diarrhea and sickness
  • Passing a few drops of urine